Being an English language development (ELD teacher) has provided Taylor Keener with an opportunity to make a positive impact in her classroom and in the wider community. “I have always had a passion for working with diverse populations and supporting students in the classroom and beyond,” she said. “Helping students develop their English allows them to succeed in the classroom and gives them the skills they need to interact and engage with their community in authentic situations.”
As an ELD teacher, Taylor works with students whose first language is something other than English. She helps them develop their English when speaking, listening, reading and writing. She also supports classroom teachers as they work with these students in the regular education classroom setting.
As a graduate student in Messiah’s online program, Taylor felt both challenged and supported. “I was challenged to think in new ways and creatively engage in content to make it applicable to what I was already doing in the classroom,” she said. “This learning enhanced my teaching in both the regular education classroom and in my role now.” She also appreciated the opportunity to integrate faith into her studies.
Initially, having a master’s degree provided a pay increase and allowed Taylor to be more equipped in the classroom. More than that, she said, “My degree is the reason I was able to transition into my role as an ELD teacher.”